Top 10 Hostels in Sydney For Backpackers
August 7, 2024
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Introduction
Sydney is a vibrant playground for backpackers, packed with iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, and bustling nightlife. Whether you're catching waves at Bondi Beach, climbing the Harbour Bridge, or exploring the historic Rocks district, there's always something to do. Staying in a hostel is the best way to experience the city on a budget while meeting fellow travellers. Hostels in Sydney are social hubs with unique amenities like rooftop terraces, free surfboard rentals, and yoga classes, all strategically located near major attractions and public transport. Get ready to explore Sydney in the most fun and affordable way possible!
Why Stay in a Hostel in Sydney
Staying in a hostel in Sydney is like hitting the jackpot for budget-conscious travellers. You get to save a ton of cash on accommodation, which means more money for adventures and experiences. Hostels are super affordable compared to hotels, and they come with all the essentials you need. Plus, they’re often located right in the heart of the action. Imagine waking up just steps away from the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, or Bondi Beach. No long commutes or pricey cab rides – you’re already where you want to be!
But it’s not just about saving money. Hostels are a social hub where you can meet fellow travellers from all over the world. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, the hostel vibe is all about community. Many hostels organise fun events like pub crawls, movie nights, and city tours, making it easy to make new friends and create unforgettable memories. And the amenities? Think rooftop terraces with killer views, free yoga classes, surfboard rentals, and more. Hostel staff are usually locals who know the city inside out and can give you the best tips on what to see and do. So, if you want a mix of great location, new friends, and awesome amenities, staying in a hostel in Sydney is the way to go!
Top 10 Hostels In Sydney
1) Mad Monkey Coogee Beach
Brief Description: Mad Monkey Coogee Beach is a lively, beachside hostel that offers a perfect blend of social atmosphere and stunning coastal views. It’s ideal for travellers looking to enjoy the beach lifestyle while meeting new people.
Location: 186 Arden St, Coogee NSW 2034, Australia. (Located right on Coogee Beach, ideal for the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk and close to cafes and bars)
Highlights:
- Free breakfast
- Social events and activities
- On-site restaurant and bar (FNKY Coogee Beach) with live DJs
- Beachfront views
HostelWorld Score: 8.7
Average Price Per Night: $67 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: Mad Monkey Coogee Beach stands out for its unbeatable beachfront location and vibrant social scene. The hostel offers amenities like an on-site bar with live DJs and weekly social events, making it perfect for beach lovers and social travellers looking to connect with others. The friendly staff and clean facilities enhance the overall experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
2) Nomads Sydney
Brief Description: Nomads Sydney is a vibrant and modern hostel located in the heart of Sydney, making it the perfect base for exploring the city's famous attractions. It offers a variety of accommodation options, from shared dorms to private rooms, catering to all types of travelers. The hostel's dynamic social scene is enhanced by its award-winning bar, The Scary Canary, which hosts nightly events and activities
Location: 477 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. (Located in the heart of Sydney, close to Darling Harbour and Town Hall)
Highlights:
- Award-winning bar (The Scary Canary) with nightly events like trivia nights and silent discos
- Free daily activities including pancake breakfasts and city tours
- Central location close to iconic sites like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Free city tour
HostelWorld Score: 8.6
Average Price Per Night: $86 AUD
The Vibe: Party
Why it deserves this spot: Nomads Sydney stands out for its central location and lively atmosphere. The hostel's award-winning bar, The Scary Canary, is a hub of activity with themed nights and social events that make it easy to meet fellow travellers. The range of free daily activities, such as pancake breakfasts and guided city tours, ensure that guests have plenty of opportunities to explore Sydney and make new friends. Additionally, the modern facilities and friendly staff provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for all guests.
3) Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross
Brief Description: Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross offers a perfect blend of chill vibes and a lively party atmosphere. This hostel is ideal for travellers looking to meet and socialise with other adventurers in a vibrant part of Sydney.
Location: 34-36A Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia. (Located in the heart of Kings Cross, a 2-minute walk from Kings Cross Station, close to bars, restaurants, and cafes)
Highlights:
- Free gym access
- Large TV room and gaming area with PlayStation and board games
- Organised events 6 nights a week
HostelWorld Score: 8.1
Average Price Per Night: $51 AUD
The Vibe: Social
Why it deserves this spot: Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross is perfect for travelers who want to experience Sydney's energetic nightlife and social scene. The hostel offers free gym access, regular social events, and a well-equipped gaming room, making it a great place to meet new people and have fun. Its central location near Kings Cross Station ensures easy access to the rest of the city and its attractions
4) Wake Up! Sydney Central
Brief Description: Wake Up! Sydney Central is a sprawling, modern hostel known for its perfect mix of chill and party vibes. With over 500 beds, it offers a comfortable and social environment during the day and transforms into a lively hotspot at night with its underground nightclub.
Location: 509 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia. (Located opposite Central Railway Station, providing easy access to public transport and major attractions)
Highlights:
- On-site bar and nightclub (Side Bar) with live DJs and themed nights
- On-site café (Roy’s Café) serving breakfast and lunch
- Free city and beach walking tours
- Regular social events and activities, including trivia nights, pizza nights, and pub crawls
HostelWorld Score: 9.3
Average Price Per Night: $89 AUD
The Vibe: Social/Party
Why it deserves this spot: Wake Up! Sydney Central is celebrated for its social activities and excellent facilities. The on-site Side Bar and Roy’s Café offer great food, drinks, and entertainment, ensuring there's always something happening. Free walking tours and regular events make it easy to meet new people and explore the city. The hostel's prime location near Central Station makes it a convenient base for discovering Sydney.
5) The Maze Backpackers
Brief Description: The Maze Backpackers is a lively and budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Sydney. It offers a range of accommodation options, including some of the cheapest private rooms in the city, making it ideal for travellers looking to explore Sydney on a budget.
Location: 417 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia. (Located in Sydney CBD, 5 minutes' walk from Central Station and 12 minutes' walk to Darling Harbour)
Highlights:
- Budget private rooms and dormitory options
- Game room with pool table
- Regular social events and activities
HostelWorld Score: 7.4
Average Price Per Night: $86 AUD for privates/ $47 AUD for dorms
The Vibe: Budget/Social
Why it deserves this spot: The Maze Backpackers is perfect for budget-conscious travellers seeking a central location. It’s renowned for offering some of the cheapest private rooms in Sydney, making it an excellent choice for those who want privacy without the high cost. Its lively atmosphere, regular social events, and convenient amenities like a game room and shared TV lounge make it a great choice for meeting other travellers and enjoying the city without breaking the bank.
6) Wake Up! Bondi Beach
Brief Description: Wake Up! Bondi Beach is a vibrant hostel located just seconds from the sand and surf of one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches. It offers a mix of social activities and relaxed beach vibes, making it a perfect spot for travellers who want to experience Bondi's famous beach culture.
Location: 110 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia. (Located directly across from Bondi Beach, offering stunning ocean views and close to shops and cafes)
Highlights:
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Bondi Beach
- Free rooftop yoga classes and personal training sessions
- Regular social events including trivia nights, bingo, and Sunday pancakes
- On-site café
HostelWorld Score: 9.3
Average Price Per Night: $97 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: Wake Up! Bondi Beach is perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the beach lifestyle. The hostel’s rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of Bondi Beach, and the free yoga classes and personal training sessions are a great way to stay active while on the road. Regular social events create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to meet new people and enjoy the vibrant Bondi community.
7) YHA Sydney Harbour
Brief Description: YHA Sydney Harbour is a top-rated, award-winning hostel that combines modern facilities with a unique heritage experience. It's the perfect place for travellers who want to enjoy stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House while staying in the historic Rocks precinct.
Location: 110 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia. (Located in The Rocks, close to Circular Quay and major attractions)
Highlights:
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House
- On-site café serving breakfast and snacks
- Summer pop-up rooftop bar with drinks from local breweries and distilleries
- Free, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Archaeological site (The Big Dig) incorporated into the building design
HostelWorld Score: 9.3
Average Price Per Night: $76 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: YHA Sydney Harbour offers a unique blend of history and modern comfort. The rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks, making it a great spot for socializing or simply relaxing. The hostel’s prime location in The Rocks means you’re within walking distance of Circular Quay, the Opera House, and numerous cafes and restaurants. The combination of excellent facilities, including the on-site café and free Wi-Fi, and the heritage experience makes this hostel a standout choice for travellers looking to explore Sydney in a unique way.
8) Pacific House Hostel
Brief Description: Pacific House Hostel offers a luxurious yet affordable experience, blending modern design with historic charm. This hostel is perfect for travellers seeking comfort and style in a social setting. It’s housed in a heritage-listed building dating back to 1892, providing a unique atmosphere that combines history with contemporary amenities.
Location: 50 Sir John Young Crescent, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011, Australia. (Located close to the city center, art galleries, and nightlife, within walking distance to Sydney's main attractions)
Highlights:
- Rooftop terrace with city views
- Free continental breakfast
- Regular evening entertainment
- On-site restaurant (Il Pacifico)
HostelWorld Score: 9.2
Average Price Per Night: $70 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: Pacific House Hostel combines luxury with affordability, offering premium amenities like a rooftop terrace with stunning city views and regular evening entertainment. Its central location makes it easy to explore Sydney’s cultural and nightlife scene. The hostel’s beautifully designed interiors and friendly atmosphere make it a standout choice for travellers looking for a bit of extra comfort and style during their stay in Sydney.
9) Summer House Backpackers Kings Cross
Brief Description: Summer House Backpackers Kings Cross offers a vibrant and affordable stay in the heart of Sydney. Nestled in a quiet street just behind the bustling Kings Cross nightlife district, it’s perfect for travellers looking to enjoy the city's energetic side while having a comfortable place to retreat.
Location: 153 Forbes St, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011, Australia. (Located close to Kings Cross Station, Hyde Park, and Sydney's major nightlife spots)
Highlights
- Regular social events and organised nights out
- Surfboard hire
- Budget Friendly
- TV and movie chill out room
HostelWorld Score: 8.3
Average Price Per Night: $46 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: Summer House Backpackers Kings Cross is ideal for travellers who want to be close to Sydney’s lively nightlife. The hostel offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, regular social events, and organised nights out, making it easy to meet fellow adventurers. Its central location and range of amenities, including surfboard hire and a travel desk, ensure guests have everything they need for a fun and convenient stay in Sydney.
10) The Village Bondi Beach
Brief Description
Location: 19 Lamrock Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia. (Located just 2 minutes' walk from Bondi Beach and surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and bars)
Highlights
- On-site tour desk for city tours and surfing lessons
- Free breakfast
- Ensuite bathrooms in all rooms
HostelWorld Score: 8.3
Average Price Per Night: $67 AUD
The Vibe: Chill/Social
Why it deserves this spot: The Village Bondi Beach offers an unbeatable location just steps away from Bondi Beach, making it ideal for surfers and beach enthusiasts. The hostel’s social atmosphere, with communal areas and organized activities, makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. The sunny courtyard and communal TV lounge provide great spaces to relax and unwind after a day at the beach. The proximity to public transport and local amenities ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay